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macOS⏱ 4 min

How to Delete Temporary Files on macOS

Remove temp files and system junk left behind by installations and updates.

Last verified: February 21, 2026

macOS temporary files live primarily in ~/Library/Caches (user apps) and /Library/Caches (system services), both hidden from regular Finder navigation unless you use the Go > Go to Folder shortcut (Command + Shift + G). The OS actively manages most of these locations and reclaims space automatically under storage pressure, so manual cleanup is rarely necessary unless you're tracking down a specific misbehaving app whose cache has grown unusually large. Third-party tools like CleanMyMac or the free OnyX can clear multiple cache categories simultaneously with a preview of what will be removed.

Quick Steps

Follow in order for the fastest result.

  1. 1Open Finder, press Command + Shift + G, type ~/Library/Caches, and delete the contents of cache folders for apps you use.
  2. 2Also open Disk Cleanup from the Start menu (Windows) or use Storage Recommendations (macOS) for deeper system temp file removal.
  3. 3Empty the Recycle Bin or Trash after deleting to complete the cleanup.

Still Not Working?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to delete temporary files on macOS?
Yes. The ~/Library/Caches folder holds temporary app data that can be safely removed. macOS rebuilds whatever it needs on next launch.
How much space will deleting temp files free on macOS?
Varies significantly — anywhere from a few hundred MB to several GB depending on how long since the last cleanup and how heavily the device is used. Active development machines and gaming PCs accumulate much more temp data than light-use devices.
Why do temp files come back so quickly after I delete them on macOS?
Temporary files are a normal side effect of using apps — browsers, editors, and the OS constantly generate them during normal operation. Deleting them is not a permanent fix; it's routine maintenance. They are harmless unless they grow very large or become corrupted.
What is the difference between temp files and junk files on macOS?
Temporary files are created intentionally by apps for active tasks. Junk files is a broader informal term covering temp files, leftover installer packages, duplicate downloads, and orphaned app data. Both are safe to remove via the built-in Storage Sense or Disk Cleanup tools.

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